The splendor of New York

Ebony, May, 2004 by Eunice W. Johnson

FOR Spring 2004, New York designers offered an array of colorful and refreshing designs that will help you welcome warm weather with sophisticated style. From the lady-like suits from Bill Blass to Carmen Marc Valvo's elegant evening gowns to Baby Phat's dazzling ensembles, the message is that fashion splendor is abundant in New York City. Flowing Grecian gowns of multiple layers of silk chiffon were popular on the runways, as were short-short dresses and skirts, bare shoulders and colorful play clothes. Oscar de la Renta continued his tradition of offering sophisticated elegance and Michael Kors' designs ranged from smart casual wear to elegant gowns. Overall, New York designers demonstrated that they are trendsetters in the style world when it comes to splendor and elegance.

Classy spring suits parade the runway during Bill Blass' New York show. Shown here are two versions of same suit with Peter Pan collar and knee-length straight skirt. Pat Cleveland, one of the first Ebony Fashion Fair models to achieve international fame, showcases the suit in pink with three-button jacket; the creamy tweed suit with five-button jacket has embroidered floral design adorning scalloped, fringed hemline. Both accessorized with classic pumps in complementary colors.

Pretty pink fuchsia strapless Grecian empire-cut gown with multiple layers of flowing silk chiffon. By Carmen Marc Valvo.

Oscar de la Renta's lime green trumper skirt cocktail dress sets the pace for spring. His pink cardigan with fringe trim and matching shell are worn over knee-length skill skirt with floral print and ruffle fringe hemline.

EBONY FASHION FAIR

Sexy goddess look prevails in Bill Blass flowing silk chiffon halter gown with cummerbund waist in understated shades of green and purple. Note: Large chandelier earrings.

Below center: Elegant ensemble pairs olive green jacket with beaded abstract pattern with silky crepe pants. By Bill Blass.

Simple strapless tangerine shift is banded with bow at hip. Accessorized with matching sandals and yellow sweater. By Tracy Reese.

For the young and daring, Baby Phat delivers sassy blue ensemble of for midriff top worn over low-waist pants with body-baring open panels up each side. Accessorized with blue sandals with black and silver swirl design.

Party time in Anna Sui's ensemble of silver and yellow floral micromini skirt with bra top with denim bow worn under denim shirt jacket with white collar and accents. Accessorized with chandelier earrings and sandals.

White Persian lamb-style coat with orange and white striped satin lining worn over white satin jean-cut pants and horizontally striped orange and white knit tank top. Accessorized with gold sandals and orange and tan belt. By Michael Kors.

Left: Beautiful white ensemble tops pants with blouse of delicate chantilly lace with scarf tie, worn under swing coat with three-quarter-length raglan sleeves. Accessorized with white gloves and sandals. By Chado Ralph Rucci.

Right: Elegant, feminine tangerine toga gown of layered silk chiffon features halter bodice and wrap belt. By Michael Kors.

Sophisticated style characterizes Chado Ralph Rucci tan leather suit accented with white top-stitching. Note: Long buckle belt and fingerless gloves.

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